Buy This, Not That, Back to School Edition: Our Favorite 3-Row SUVs For Kids, Gear, and CarpoolsThese popular 3-row SUVs look good in a school pickup line, but which is right for you? Here are our top picks as parents who drove them.We're a special breed, us 3-row SUV drivers: Our cars are a must for our kids, their friends and carpools that save us from driving to Every. Single. Practice. They afford us room for groceries, gear and more; they are our road trip cars and get us home in a snowstorm, without the bulk and stigma of a minivan.So it's easy to see why 3-row SUVs are one of the most popular car types, and why only a handful of automakers don't offer at least one. Even with so many options available now, many fall short where it counts: space, comfort, everyday usability, fuel economy and value.AdvertisementAdvertisementWhile more options from more brands seem great, it also means more time researching, going cross-eyed while comparing specs. It becomes even harder as more and more SUVs include a 3rd row, even if its only for the sake of convenience (looking at you, Toyota 4Runner and Mitsubishi Outlander).Don't worry—you're in the right place. We took a look at some of the most popular 3-row SUVs, the ones you might see in the school pickup line, and alternatives that can be a better fit according to us: moms who've put them to the test.This story is 100% human-researched and written based on actual first-person knowledge, extensive experience, and expertise on the subject of cars and trucks.We Love the Toyota 4Runner, but Look to the Jeep Grand Cherokee L For More SpaceWith the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee – Credit: Scotty ReissThe Toyota 4Runner is popular among off-roaders and overlanders because of its robust 4WD system and off-road capabilities. What it isn't known for is its comfort or good gas mileage. Buyers can add a third row after 2025, but we don't know that we'd ask anyone we liked to sit there, and with the seat in use, the rear cargo space is non-existent.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe Jeep Grand Cherokee L, however, offers center row captain's chairs, a roomy 3rd row thanks to an added foot in length, a decent amount of cargo space and it can go anywhere the Jeep Grand Cherokee can go, which is pretty much anywhere the Toyota 4Runner can go: Hills, trails, sandy beaches, snowy roads, you name it. Want to know how we know? We drove it on the beach and on a crazy off-road trail that Jeep insisted we drive just to see how capable it is.The Subaru Ascent is Great, but the Honda Pilot is BetterThere's some very important (and appreciated) updates that come with the 2026 model – Credit: Kristen BrownNext time you pick up your kiddos from school, pay attention to how many Subaru Ascents you see idling in line. They're popular for three important reasons: unbeatable all-wheel drive, an excellent price range, and the brand's long-standing reputation for safety. Shoot, I drive a Subaru Forester for the same reasons. But when it comes to how it comes to other 3-row SUVs, like the Honda Pilot, the spotlight dims a bit. As a two-row, the Ascent is excellent. As a 3-row SUV, the third row is cramped, uncomfortable, and the cargo space behind the third row is severely lacking.The Honda Pilot is also a staple for families for the same reasons. But the third row is in an entirely different league from the Subaru's. It's roomy, visibility is excellent, every passenger is well cared for, the cargo space is much better with the third row up. Plus, you don't have to pick a specific trim or pay a premium for a bench seat or captain's chairs. With the Pilot, you get both, because the seat in the middle can either be folded down to act as an elbow rest (complete with cupholders), folded up to fit a sixth passenger, or removed completely to make it easier to access the third row.Love the Nissan Pathfinder But Need More Room? Upgrade to the Nissan ArmadaThe big, beefy Nissan Armada is a hidden-gem luxury 3-row SUV – Credit: Scotty ReissBoth the Nissan Pathfinder and the Armada are stellar 3-row SUVs and both have been updated recently with really great features for families. And while the Pathfinder has been a staple for seemingly forever, the Armada gives you serious interior space, a powerful twin-turbo V6, a smooth ride and has room to grow. The Pathfinder is more compact and efficient, and we love the trucky V6, but the third row is tight and may not be ideal for daily riders. Yes, the Armada is more expensive than the Pathfinder, but you'll be so glad you decided on more legroom, cargo space, and space that allows you to separate the kids.AdvertisementAdvertisementPlus, we love the power and 4WD option in the Armada, as well as the "Invisible Hood" mode that displays what's in front of the car as if the hood weren't there. It makes this large SUV easier to park, and if you're into it, more effective off-road when the need calls.The GMC Yukon Is One of the OG 3-Row SUVs, But So Is the Jeep WagoneerWith the 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer out on the trail – Credit: Meagan WristenDon't take this the wrong way—we love the GMC Yukon. It has a great interior, lots of space, and impressive towing capacity. But it can also be a bit ubiquitous on the road, or in the school pickup lane. For just as much capability (and legroom), take a look at the Jeep Wagoneer (or Grand Wagoneer if you're feeling fancy).The Wagoneer delivers a lot of the extras, from a panoramic sunroof to power folding rear seats to automatic running boards, and installing kids' car seats is easy, even in the 3rd row. Plus, many of the functions that are accessed with buttons in the back can be controlled on the touch screen, too.It's also worth mentioning that for 2026, Jeep is debuting a unique hybrid setup later this year. Instead of a gas engine that works with a large hybrid battery, Jeep packed a V6 under the hood that's there for the sole purpose of charging the EV battery. But that's an optional upgrade. If you're a bit too wary, you can still buy one with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo Hurricane V6 engine.The Chevy Traverse and Buick Enclave are Sister 3-row SUVs; Which is Better?The Enclave is striking, roomy, and priced fairlyIf you're looking at the Chevy Traverse and loving its captains chairs, roomy 3rd row, ample cargo space and wide, functional front screen, but feeling like you really need someplace to put your handbag where your kids won't step on it, we've got you. And so does Buick: the Enclave, which leans luxe and stylish, has a floating center console that is the perfect place to put your purse. Plus, it adds an elevated interior with a softer, more premium feel, a really quiet cabin and still has plenty of seating and cargo space.AdvertisementAdvertisementBoth Traverse and Enclave share a new multimedia system operated by Google and have "hey Google" voice-activated assistance that anyone in the car can operate (and you can turn off if they get too "competitive"). You truly can't go wrong with either, since they're essentially fraternal twins of the industry, but for style and substance, the Enclave has the edge.We Like the Hyundai Santa Fe, but We LOVE the Hyundai PalisadeThe Hyundai Palisade Hybrid is the first of its kind, and the first to debut an all-new hybrid system – Credit: Kristen BrownEveryone who's driven the Hyundai Santa Fe has loved the open, roomy interior, the modern design and the number of features you get for the price, as well as the 3rd row. However, we all agreed that it could use just a little more power: The gas-powered model delivers 277 HP and the hybrid generates 231 HP. That's enough power for you and the dog, and maybe one kiddo, but put butts in all the seats and you'll feel it when you accelerate onto the highway.The Palisade offers more power, 291 HP in the current model and up to 326 in the new hybrid model, as well as a nicely sized third row, a comfortable, quiet cabin and nice finishes that feel upscale without trying too hard. There are other fun trims, too, like the off-road-ready (and very handsome) X-Pro model, and for the price, even the base model feels like a penthouse.The Toyota Highlander is Great, But the Kia Sorento Has an EdgeThe Kia Sorento is pretty hard to beat for the price – Credit: Scotty ReissThe Toyota Highlander is popular for a good reason. It's roomy, comes in a variety of trims, and even has a solid hybrid version that we've loved since it was introduced. However, the third row is small and with the Highlander's popularity, it can be hard to get. Which is why we turn to the Kia Sorento, a similarly sized, similarly powered SUV.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe Sorento delivers a nicely roomy third row, a modern cabin design and a very tech-forward multimedia system. And then, it offers the X-Line and X-Pro with more all-terrain capability and the choice of a hybrid or a plug-in hybrid with about 30 miles of all-electric driving. That's something you can't get in the Highlander at all and for those of us who hate getting gas on the way to school, it's a day-saver.Love the Lexus TX But Not It's Price Tag? Check Out the Toyota Grand HighlanderThis would be a great car for grandparents, too, since you can tow the grandkids without committing to a minivan – Credit: Kristen BrownHere's where Toyota really crushes it: Both the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX share a very roomy cabin, a large 3rd row, lots of features for every passenger—cup holders, air vents and USB ports for everyone—and the option of pure gas or hybrid power. The Lexus only offers a plug-in hybrid electric version or the more powerful performance hybrid, as compared to the Grand Highlander's offering of a traditional gas-sipping hybrid, a gas-only model and a hybrid max that blends power and efficiency.The Grand Highlander can also be dressed up or down, however you choose, with leatherette or leather upholstery, captain's chairs or a center row bench, and front seat pampering, or not. Either is great, but you can still get posh surrounds without the Lexus price tag in the Toyota Grand Highlander.Love a Big Boxy SUV? Go For the Infiniti QX80 over the Lexus LXMom life is sporty and elegant in the Infiniti QX80 – Credit: Natalie MerolaThese are both big luxury 3-row SUVs for families that deliver excellent third-row seating, a great view of the road and lots of pampering features. The QX80 delivers 450 horsepower from a twin-turbo V6 (50 hp over the old V8), and real luxury features including the expansive front screen and Google built-in with "Hey Google" voice assistance. All at a starting price that is $25,000 less than the Lexus LX.AdvertisementAdvertisementBut that's not why we love it over the Lexus: It's the slide and tilt center row seats that make 3rd row access a cinch; the Lexus has flip and fold center seats, which can make access tough with car seats installedOn the plus side, the Lexus LX holds its value and carries the reputation for towing, off-roading and other rugged pursuits; the QX80 is known for being more refined, including one of my favorite features: interior AND exterior cameras and a Klipsch audio system, which allows the driver to chat on the phone (hands-free) without the other passengers hearing what the caller is saying. The speakers are in the front seat headrests.Love the Chevy Tahoe But Need More Space? Go for the Chevy Suburban2025 Chevy Suburban and Tahoe. – Credit: Scotty ReissThese cars are almost identical—until you get to the cargo area. The Suburban is a full 12″ longer and gives you that much-needed extra space that truly works for big families. The Tahoe, while capable, can't match the Suburban's cargo space when all three rows are in use.It's worth noting that while the Suburban and Tahoe's 3rd rows have 3 seatbelts, they only have two head restraints, and that the center row seats flip and fold for 3rd row access—something to consider for families with kids in car seats.AdvertisementAdvertisementStill, both have beautiful interior options, expansive front screens—some of the biggest in the business—and are built for towing, off-roading and overlanding. And in the High Country edition, not only do you get every feature Chevy offers, but you'll get a sliding center console that opens up to accommodate a handbag. Just another reason the only question here is, how much space do you need?Thinking the Toyota Sequoia Is All That? Check Out the Ford ExpeditionThe writer with the 2025 Ford Expedition – Credit: Scotty ReissThe Toyota Sequoia is the brand's largest family-focused SUV and it's there for those who road trip, tow, camp and need 4WD much of the time. What it can't do, though, is what the Ford Expedition is so great at: Versatile seating.The Expedition, which was redesigned for the 2025 model year, has center row seats that slide and tilt, middle seats in the center and a 3rd row that can lie flat, and an extended wheel base model that offers an additional 12″ of cargo space. Plus, it comes with a cargo management divider that doubles as a tailgating table.Both are great off-road, but for passenger and cargo Tetris, the Expedition wins, hands down.Want to Go Electric? Consider the Hyundai Ioniq 9 Versus the Volvo EX90The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is a luxurious EV SUV with an impressive range and plenty of power – Credit: Kristen BrownDon't get us wrong: we love the Volvo EX90 for its minimalist Interior, powerful motors, all-wheel drive and family-friendly features like captain's chairs with integrated cup holders and a booster seat in the center row bench. But the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is larger, by about 20 cubic feet, meaning more legroom and more room for middle school backpacks.AdvertisementAdvertisementWe also love the lounge-like feel in the Ioniq 9, the rounded corners, the muted tones and the sliding center console that opens to the front or the rear and accommodates a handbag. Both the Ioniq 9 and the EX90 have an all-electric range of about 310 miles (the Ioniq 9 SE and SEL can go up to 320 miles) and deliver just over 400 HP in the top trim, though the Volvo lives in truly luxury territory with a starting price of about $81,000, which the Ioniq 9 has a price that starts at about $20,000 less.Don't Fall for Peer Pressure—Shop Around!Honda's reliability, capabilities, and more helped me feel confident – Credit: Erica MuellerThe good news is you don't have to settle for the popular 3-row SUVs or what your neighbor just bought. There are lots of choices for function, comfort, and usability, and all that matters so much more than trendy hype.Aren't you glad you took the time to decide what fits your life best?
